A LAN administrator needs computer networking skills, knowledge of hardware and software, and experience in computer security. They must select, install, and maintain network hardware, have a clear understanding of network architecture, and maintain servers. They may also provide network security and basic technical support. Good communication skills and knowledge of business practices are also important.
The skills required for a LAN administrator vary somewhat from job to job because different companies rely on different software and hardware systems for their local area networks (LANs). A LAN administrator will always need solid computer networking skills, including knowledge of the hardware and software components of a network. Administrators of local networks usually also need to be experienced in computer security. In many companies, LAN administrators need additional interpersonal and organizational skills in addition to their computing skills.
Selection, installation, and maintenance of network hardware are at the heart of a LAN administrator’s job. An administrator needs to be familiar with the different hardware options available on the market and with the older systems employed by a specific company. Individual companies often select a certain set of hardware components, but a broad familiarity with all networking options is helpful. A network administrator will be called upon to physically install and maintain the hardware and perform all necessary operations to correctly configure and update the internal firmware and settings on the network components.
A clear understanding of the fundamentals of network architecture is essential for a LAN administrator. This will certainly include familiarity with TCP/IP and may require other more specialized knowledge depending on the type of network being administered. Network administrators employed in mid-sized and large enterprises often also need to be well-versed in techniques to optimize the efficiency of network operations.
A LAN administrator usually maintains servers for a company and will need a solid working knowledge of the software systems used on those machines. Windows-based servers tend to be more common in smaller companies. Larger companies are more likely to employ LINUX or UNIX based servers. LAN administrators are often required to handle backing up and protecting critical data and may need to be skilled with specialized hardware and software to do this job.
Network administrators are often called upon to provide some or all of the network security for an enterprise. They may be needed to maintain antivirus software on machines connected to a network. They will also likely be part of any response to malicious software infection or external hacking threats to a network and need to be familiar with network security procedures.
A typical LAN administrator also needs a selection of less technical skills. Larger companies often have dedicated technical support staff, but smaller companies may rely on network administrators to provide basic technical support. Good communication skills are essential for this. Administrators will also be asked to provide information about the costs and benefits of different types of network hardware and software, and a basis in business practices can make this part of the job easier.
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